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Danil “Dendi” Ishutin is one of the most popular personalities in Dota 2. Even though he might be a little awkward, he’s been an amazing addition to The International 2019 broadcast.
Dendi joined veteran analysts and commentators like Paul “Redeye” Chaloner and Austin “Capitalist” Walsh on the main desk for the North American TI9 broadcast today and he brought a unique aura to the group.
The Natus Vincere legend was recently released from the team after a strange year where he spent most of the season in Southeast Asia. After a failed attempt to make it into TI9, Valve brought him out to the event to appear as a personality between matches.
When he first sat down at the desk, it was clear that the normally-outgoing player was a little nervous. His loud and silly personality seemed much more controlled when he focused on playing off of the other analysts.
But even though he might have been uncomfortable in the pre-game discussion about TNC Predator and Vici Gaming, he still had some excellent input.
Having spent his first season away from Na’Vi playing for Tigers in SEA, Dendi provided some detailed explanations about how western Dota differs from the southern region. As he and Redeye talked about the differences in speed of play between regions, fans got to see a little more of Dendi’s usual self.
He slowly started becoming more animated with his explanations, getting louder when he talked and jumping into the conversations instead of waiting for a referral. His experience as a top player immensely enriched the conversations happening on the desk.
By the time game two of the TNC vs. Vici series wrapped up, Dendi was back to his normal self. The goofy demeanor that made him such a likable figure early in his career shone through as he joked with his fellow casters.
Out of all the pro players that have made broadcast appearances throughout TI9 so far, Dendi seems to be the one drawing the most praise for his time on the mic.
Longtime Dota fans are happy to have Dendi back at The International, even if he isn’t playing. The Na’Vi legend will likely make many more appearances on the desk before the event is over.
